Use ofprocessed kaolin as a sustainable technique to mitigate the effects of climate change on agricultural production

Coffee is the second most consumed hot beverage on the planet. Brazil is recognized as the main protagonist in coffee production and exportation. Therefore, the search for increased production without expanding the physical area planted is a path to sustainability and a pillar of agricultural research in tropical regions. In light of this, the present study aims to discuss, through an integrative literature review, a sustainable and ecologically correct technique for the protection of commercially grown coffee plants in full sun, in order to ensure the continuous growth of coffee production in Brazil. This technique involves spraying the mineral kaolin on commercially grown coffee plants, which is an inorganic, natural, processed, purified, and formulated mineral available under the commercial brand Surround (R) WP. The methodology applied was descriptive and explanatory research, aimed at identifying the relationship between air temperature, temperature on the plants, and the damage caused to the plants through the technical procedure of bibliographic research. In general, the increase in air temperature causes thermal stress in coffee plants and promotes leaf burning caused by excess solar radiation, leaving the plant vulnerable to unwanted insects. The results of the reviewed studies demonstrated that the application of kaolin contributed significantly to increased productivity, improved grain quality, and added value to the commercialized product. Thus, the product may be an important ally for the sustainable and economically viable growth of Brazilian coffee production.